#LovinLebanon Podcast

After more than a decade, a vacant piece of property will be transformed. In Episode 217 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, we chat with Pam Verbarg with The Arc of Greater Boone County.  The Arc recieved a grant to add this amenity for all, just off The Big 4 Trail, along West Main Street. Development details and a completion timeline are all included in this episode!

I think we can all agree - big things are happening throughout Boone County. Someone who has seen that growth firsthand is our guest for Episode 216 of our #LovinLebanon Podcast. Andrea Kern is the new Executive Director of the Boone County Economic Development Corporation...but as you'll hear...she has extensive countywide knowledge. Andrea recaps the hiring process and what she's been doing to hit the ground running. More on the Boone EDC: https://www.betterinboone.org/  

For Episode 215 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, we learn more about the Eli Lilly Foundry. This development is located off State Road 32, within the State's LEAP District. Matthew Comparato and Geoffrey Lewis join us for this episode. We get more info on the project timeline, what will take place within the facility, and how this development will effect our community. Stay up to date on the progress of the Foundry site: https://thefoundrypartners.com/  

The excitement continues to build for Boone County Summer Fest 2025! Two great days of live music, fantastic food, and shopping options are ahead on May 30th & 31st. For Episode 214, we chat with Ellie Brown and Amanda Leet from The Janeways. This all-female rock group opens for The Flying Toasters on Friday night. Find out how these five ladies got together to chase a dream.  Learn more about The Janeways: https://www.thejanewaysband.com/ Learn more about Boone County Summer Fest 2025: https://www.facebook.com/share/16ZKcbD8YE/  

Market season is just two weeks from today!! Let the excitement begin! Lebanon City Market back in 2025, Tuesday evenings from 5 to 7, June through September. Market Manager Sarah Howell and Joel Woody from Wisewood Farms join us. What new, fun things are in store this year - find out on Episode 213 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast - right now! Learn more about the market  

In her final episode as the City of Lebanon's intern, Lauren Argotte sits down with the Lebanon FFA Quiz Bowl Team- Garrett Adams, Brayden Adams, Blake Argotte, and Lucas Argotte. Coached by Mr. Drew Reed, Lebanon High School's Agricultural Educator and FFA Advisor, this talented team recently took 1st place at the District IV Convention and will be advancing to compete at the Indiana FFA State Convention, held June 16–19 at Purdue University. Tune in to hear about their journey, preparation, and what it's like having two sets of twins on one winning team!   To learn more about Indiana FFA: https://inffa.org

Progress continues to...progress on the Eli Lilly site on the north side of town. On Episode 212 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, we check in with Todd Dando and Jeff Wagner from Fluor Corporation to get an update on the construction process. Roughly two thousand workers are on-site right now, but that number is about to increase. Jeff and Todd share the efforts in place to meet upcoming challenges.

The Flying Toasters. They're a band you've likely seen perform before...and can't wait to see again. Well, now you can! The Flying Toasters are taking the stage for Summer Fest on May 30th, and Jason and Bill Hayes join us to give us a preview. We also find out how the band formed, what has kept them together all these years...and where did "The Flying Toasters" name come from. These answers, and more, on Episode 211 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast! Learn more about Summer Fest 2025! https://www.facebook.com/share/1AbFzQx9sx/  

The school year is on the home stretch, so we check in Dr. Jon Milleman for episode 210. The Lebanon Community School Corporation Superintendent recaps the school year, and updates us on current construction progress. What other updates are in store? Dr. Jon fills us in. Episode 210 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast starts now! Interested in partnering with Lebanon High School's Work Based Learning Program? Email Kelli Dennis: dennisk@leb.k12.in.us  

It's time to start looking ahead to Summer...and that includes Boone County Summer Fest. This year's event is set for May 30st and 31st and includes two days of great live music, vendors...and pickleball! Lebanon Special Events Coordinator Mariah Sahm joins us to share all the event details...Mariah also shares what other events she'd like to bring to town. Episode 209 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast starts now!   msahm@lebanon.in.gov  Learn more about the Summer Fest event by clicking here!!

Break out the ice cream cake, it's time to celebrate. 20 years of serving up soft serve in Lebanon for Jeff and Carol Whitaker.  In this episode of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, the Whitakers look back on the last two decades; of growing up in Ohio...and moving the family to Indiana. We learn what first attracted them to Lebanon...and what has kept them here ever since. We also ask the burning question...if each had to pick one menu item...which one would it be.     

After a brief break, the #LovinLebanon Podcast is back, with 2024 Officer of the Year, Ed Christy. The LPD Patrolman shares how his love of public service began at a young age…and how that excitement to serve others drives him daily. Officer Christy shares his appreciation for the present, and his future goals on Episode 207 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast!

Lebanon High School is bringing comedy to the stage with The Play That Goes Wrong! With performances running April 11–13, this production is packed with laughter and mishaps.   In this episode, we're sitting down with three senior cast members- Dawson Hix, GraceAnne Newman, and Joseph Reinhardt - to talk about the joys while preparing for this show, and their growth throughout their involvement with the theatre program  

Spring is here, and as always our Parks Department is ready for the season. Parks Director John Messenger and    Allyson Morton join us for Episode 206 of the pod, to share details on this year's Easter Egg Hunt, as well as updates on additions throughout the City's park network. Pickleball, walking trails, disc golf...and more, can be found on this episode of the #LovinLebanon Podcast! Get Parks Updates! https://seashorewaterpark.org/167/Our-Parks      

Spring Cleaning takes center stage here on Episode 205 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast. Boone County Solid Waste District Executive Director Jennifer Lawrence is our guest. She recaps the recent shoe recycling effort. More than 8,000 pairs were donated. Find out how they'll be reused. Jennifer also gets us ready for two other upcoming community benefiting events. Changing Footprints non-profit info: https://www.changingfootprints.org/ Boone County Solid Waste info: https://www.boonecountysolidwaste.com/      

In this podcast, Mrs. Kelli Dennis, Career Engagement Coordinator, talks about how the Lebanon School Corporation's Work-Based Learning (WBL) program is making a real difference in students' lives. The program gives seniors the chance to gain hands-on experience through year-long internships, helping them apply what they've learned in the classroom to real-world careers. With the support of local partners, the program has grown since its 2016 start, offering more students the opportunity to explore their future goals. Tune in to discover how WBL is not only helping students build valuable skills, but also paving the way for their success beyond graduation.   To contact Mrs. Kelli Dennis, email DennisK@leb.k12.in.us   To learn more about the program, visit the attached site: https://www.leb.k12.in.us/Page/1217  

Stop me if you've heard this one before...the people of Boone County are what make the difference. It's what brought Boone County Chamber Executive Director Sean Reaves back to town...as you'll hear in this episode. Sean shares how he's seen the area change in his nearly two years on the Chamber job, and how non-profit collaboration is providing a "boon" throughout the county. Get in touch with the Boone County Chamber: https://boonechamber.org/ Business Boon(e) Podcast: https://boonechamber.org/podcast/    

Episode 203 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast is packed with exciting updates throughout the three Boys & Girls Club of Boone County units. We check in with the B-G-C C-E-O Eric Richards, to get programming, staffing, and longterm updates. Find out what's in the works as area groups collaborate to help meet the needs of area teens. Episode 203 of the #Lovinlebanon podcast starts now! Get more details on this year's DUNK fundraiser: https://www.bgcboone.org/events-news/dunk/ BGC website: https://www.bgcboone.org/  

If you hadn't heard, the west side of town is getting is first city park. It'll be located on the site of the former Street Department on Lafayette Avenue. Deputy Planning Director Derek Warren joins us for Episode 202 to give us all the details. A skatepark, a splashpad and an obstacle course are planned.  Get more info, and a possible completion timeline - in this episode, of the #LovinLebanon Podcast.

The work happening at the Eli Lilly site continues - at an extremely fast pace. As we begin 2025, approaching the second year of the project, we check in the Todd Dando and Jeff Wagner from Fluor Corporation. Find out how the team dealt with the extreme cold, and how many more employees are expected on site by the end of the year. Get an update on the company's community service projects, too! Episode 201 of the lovinlebanon podcast - starts now!

It's a milestone...Episode 200 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast!  In this installment, we go directly to the source and wade into a much talked topic in our community - water. Mayor Matt Gentry is our guest, as is Citizens Energy Group President & CEO Jeff Harrison. Both men share the details of the Citizens/Lebanon agreement, detailing when the increased water supply will arrive, and what that timeline means for future development. Episode 200 is overflowing with important info - and it starts right now!   More Details: https://lebanon.in.gov/2024/11/20/citizens-energy-shares-lebanon-water-supply-program-update/  

The Lebanon DECA chapter shares its recent success at the district contest and its plans for the upcoming state competition, happening March 2-4 at the Indianapolis Marriott! Hear from Business Educators and DECA Advisors, Mr. Jason Joris and Mr. Tyler Damm, as they discuss how the program has continued to grow and impact the lives of members along the way. Get an inside look at their preparation and the drive behind their journey to the glass!   To learn more about the DECA Organization: https://www.deca.org  

The south side of Lebanon's downtown square is getting "sporty," thanks to Lane & Brown Sporting Gear. This new shop adds another retail offering to the heart of the city. In Episode 199 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, Rob Crawford and Brady Martin tell us how the new shop came to be and what's planned for the building's second floor. Fishing, biking, and outdoor must-haves are now for sale downtown.  Check out Land & Brown's website, and do some shopping: https://www.lbsgear.com/    

Chances are you have either built...or at least raced a Pinewood Derby race car. Great memories, right? Well, coming up on Saturday, January 25th, Pack 359 is providing an opportunity for you to relive those derby days...and support scouting at the same time. Scout Leader Dustin O'Brien and scout parent Denise Niblick get us geared up for this weekend and a Spaghetti Dinner is being held to compliment the Pinewood Derby event.  Episode 198 of the ll podcast starts now! Learn More and Get Your Tickets! Pack 359 Spaghetti Dinner Tickets, Sat, Jan 25, 2025 at 4:00 PM | Eventbrite

The Hoosier State is known for basketball, and Lebanon, Indiana is smack dab in the cradle of the sport.  A man who knows this all too well, and has documented it, joins us for Episode 197 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast. Author, historian, and former Tiger player Harley Sheets is our guest.  Harley shares his hoops experience, and why he put his love for the sport into print.  

New year, more great info here on the #LovinLebanon Podcast. In this episode, we catch up with Andy Card from Card & Associates. More development details have been released, including two new hotels, plus convention center space. More retail and restaurants are on the way, too! More details on the Farmers Bank Fieldhouse can be found here: https://thefarmersbankfh.com/  

It's the final #LovinLebanon Podcast episode of 2024...and it's a great look ahead to next year. For the first time, our city is having a winter market! Market Manager Sarah Howell, as well as Dawn Daily from DNKI Farms and Bill Moskal from Saw-whet Farm and Bakery join us. Get all the market deals, and mark your calendars for Saturdays from 10 until noon. We'll see you in 2025...but first - episode 195 - starts now!   More Details on Lebanon Winter Market: https://heartoflebanon.org/lebanon-city-market/ More Details on DNKI Farms: https://www.dnkifarms.com/ More Details on Saw-whet Farm and Bakery: https://sawwhetfarm.net/  

Episode 194 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast features a special treat - two area high school seniors - who are also City of Lebanon interns, sit down to chat about their respective experiences so far. Zaria Smith from Western Boone, and Lauren Argotte from Lebanon each share their favorite memories from the last - first semester of their senior years. Hear their favorite stories so far, and what they have planned after high school.  

Meta has made the decision - and is moving into Lebanon's LEAP District. On Episode 193 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, Mayor Matt Gentry stops by to recap the process, sharing what this news means for the city. The Mayor also answers questions that several of you are asking: What about water? Why a data center? Why the incentives? Hear answers to these questions and more! Email Mayor Gentry: MGentry@Lebanon.IN.gov Call to speak with Mayor Gentry, or setup an appointment: (765)482-1201

We're talking about a 4-letter word that starts with the letter "s." Take it easy...the word is "snow." Now that we've experienced the first round of winter weather, a couple of guys from the Department of Public Works are sharing a new online tool to help track the city's plow trucks. Jason Lawson and Dave Newell stop by to share how it works, and how this new partnership will help residents citywide. Episode 192 of the lovinlebanon podcast - starts now!   Winter Weather Truck Tracker link: https://portal.fleetpaths.com/public/983237/983205  

It's the 5th birthday for Backroads BBQ's - and you're invited! Today, from 5 until 8! On episode 191 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, Chris and Kendall Canal recap the past five years...and look ahead to the future. This dad/daughter/duo also shares details on the upcoming Lebanon Leprechauns hoops season. Chris and Kendall are taking on increased roles and exciting things are in store! More on Backroads BBQ: https://thebackroadsbbq.com/ More on the Lebanon Leprechauns: https://www.leprechaunnews.com/  

This weekend, from November 15 to 17, the curtain rises on The Newsies Musical, and we're excited to bring you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look! Directed by the talented Ms. Rachel Becker and Mrs. Gwen Schoeff, this production highlights the unwavering dedication and enthusiasm behind each cast member! Get ready to "seize the day" as you uncover the remarkable stories of some of these incredible cast members.  

The ribbon is set to be cut on a new neighborhood in Lebanon - Honor Meadows. On this episode of the #LovinLebanon Podcast, we chat with Drew Padell from Suntree Investment Group and Mike Kincaid from Traditions Realty.  The pair shares amenity and maintenance details, highlighting what residents can expect when they decide to call Honor Meadows, home More details about Honor Meadows can be found by clicking this link: https://honormeadows.com/?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIua_EoYLXiQMVOEP_AR22axRkEAAYASAAEgKNsvD_BwE  

Join us for a chat with Ava Thieke, a senior at Lebanon High School and intern with Lebanon Middle School Athletics. Ava is heavily involved in DECA, The Pennant School Newspaper as Editor-in-Chief, Student Council, and the National Honor Society, all while playing on the Varsity Soccer Team.  She intends to pursue a degree in Marketing or Finance at a college in Indiana. Don't miss this chance to kick it with Ava!  

Episode 189 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast features a pair of young Lebanon firefighters who have a special connection. Katie Pallikan and Kurt Keller went through the academy together and have been friends ever since. Now, they share the pride of being on the Lebanon Fire Department. The pair shares what makes LFD so special, even after a couple embarrassing moments during training...that they're willing to share. ;)  

Episode 188 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast is "On Location" this time around, at Hickory Cottages, located near The Farmers Bank Fieldhouse. Jennifer Nevitt joined us, and was nice enough to chat, just before the ribbon on the cottages was cut last week. Jennifer isn't only the Founding Partner and CEO of Bel Canto Asset Growth Fund, she's also an Indiana native - excited to launch the company's first offering in the Hoosier State. Learn more about Hickory Cottages: https://apartmentsinlebanonin.com/  

We're hopefully helping you get healthy on Episode 187 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast.  Dr. Beth Bartlett is our guest this time around. Dr. Beth shares the details of her holistic health location...located on Monument Drive...just off Indianapolis Avenue. We talk accupuncture, nutrition, different forms of therapy - and more! More Information about Dr. Beth Bartlett Website - https://drbethbartlett.com/contact/ Phone - 765-360-8360 Email: info@drbethbartlett.com  

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Parker Lawson, a senior at Lebanon High School, as he shares his journey balancing varsity tennis and swim, alongside his internship at Exos. Tune in to discover how these diverse aspects of his life have shaped his experiences and influenced his future endeavors.    Making Waves in the IT Industry and Sports

As the year winds down and temperatures cool down...slightly, we felt like it was time to check in on the progress of the State of Indiana's LEAP project, more specifically - Eli Lilly.  Two men who know that project and that acreage well, join us for Episode 186 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast.  Todd Dando and Jeff Wagner provide updates, not solely construction progress, but partnerships within the community as well. Read even more Lebanon Project updates by clicking this link: https://lebanon.in.gov/2024/10/11/fluor-shares-3rd-quarter-lebanon-project-update/  

The countdown to the 97th National FFA Convention is on! Join us for an exciting episode featuring Lebanon FFA seniors Addison Hand, Breanna Stratton, and Owen Bigler as they prepare for this year's convention in Indianapolis. Get a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to gear up for this incredible event as the streets come alive with corduroy blue jackets. They'll share their passion for agriculture, leadership, and the personal journeys that have shaped their experiences within FFA. Tune in for insights into their favorite moments, the impact of FFA on their lives, and more!    To learn more about the National FFA Organization: https://www.ffa.org/

The #LovinLebanon Podcast is on location, talking about the tasty offerings of Gordito's Tacos & Tortas - located within 4 Finger Distillery in downtown Lebanon. We chat with Levi Kinney and Molly O'Malia to find out how these high school friends turned Levi's love for cooking - into a tasty sensation. We talk tacos and tortas...but we also get the skinny on the Mexiconey...just wait until you hear how it's made. Get more info and check out the menu by clicking the link! https://www.gorditosrustbelt.com/  

Join the Lebanon School Corporation as we introduce an incredible Dream Team in the agriculture department! In this episode of the Learn IN Lebanon Podcast, we chat with Ms. Katelyn Rudolph, Mr. Drew Reed, and Mr. Dustin Homan, while also sending warm wishes to Mrs. Lindsey Bradway, who is currently on maternity leave.   Our agricultural educators explore the significance of taking agriculture courses and take a deep dive into their own agricultural roots.   The Lebanon Agriculture Department offers a wide range of opportunities both in and out of the classroom, including animal science, food science, and greenhouse and soilless management. Additionally, the department supports students with their SAE (Supervised Agricultural Experiences) and prepares them for various FFA contests, including Career Development Events (CDEs), Leadership Development Events (LDEs), and the Agriscience Fair. Tune in to discover how the Lebanon Agriculture Department is shaping the future of its students!   For more information about the National FFA Organization click here: https://www.ffa.org/   For more information about the Learn IN Lebanon mission click here: https://lebanon.in.gov/learninlebanon/    

It's October 1st, the beginning of the spookiest season of the year! Jayne Mathews-Sheets, Greg Woods, and Brian Benton from Fright Forest join us to get us ready for their annual event out a the Boone County Fairgrounds. There's something for Halloween fans of all ages!  More info on Fright Forest: https://www.frightforest.com/  

The ribbon has been officially cut on Gaylor Electric's facility along Indianapolis Avenue. The #LovinLebanon Podcast goes on location to chat with company CEO Chuck Goodrich. Learn about the building rehab effort, and how Gaylor Electric is partnering with the ABC Prep Academy, and with area schools to provide an opportunity for students. Learn more and contact Gaylor Electric: https://www.gaylor.com/gaylor-university/  

With the school year in full swing, we thought it was a good time to check in with Superintendent Dr. Jon Milleman. Lebanon Community School Corporation recently held its State of the School address - filled with exciting updates to every campus in the corporation. Dr. Jon details these projects, and so much more from LCSC, in Episode 182 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast! More State of the School Info:  https://www.leb.k12.in.us/site/default.aspx?PageType=3&DomainID=4&ModuleInstanceID=936&ViewID=6446EE88-D30C-497E-9316-3F8874B3E108&RenderLoc=0&FlexDataID=8813&PageID=1    

The Back to the Fifites Festival is turning 30! To help us celebrate three decades of poodle skirts (and so much more), four of the event organizers join us for Episode 181 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast. We recap humble beginnings, and look to how the event might be changing in years to come. To learn more about the Back to the Fifties Festival - click the link: https://www.fiftiesfestival.com/  

The Cabin Couseling & Resource Center along Monument Drive continues to thrive in Lebanon. A quartet of Cabin counselors stop by, including a couple of new additions to the team. Learn about the continued growth and communitywide resources that are being offered. Contact The Cabin: Website: https://www.thecabin.org/ Phone: (765)859-3110

Savvy Sliders Opening in Lebanon - Wednesday, August 28th. The restaurant is located along Lebanon Street/State Road 39. Click the link to view the menu! https://www.savvysliders.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/GeekTown_Vert_Menu_NoPrices-SM.pdf  

It's always an....interesting time when Deputy Planning Director Derek Warren stops by to record a #LovinLebanon Podcast episode. This time around, Derek shares the details behind the new wayfinding signs that have been added throughout the city. He's also asking for your help - what to do with the former Street Garage along Lafayette Avenue. A new park? Skate park? Another citywide water feature? Find out how you can share your thoughts.

One of Lebanon's most heavily traveled east/west roads is getting an upgrade, and if you've driven on Anderson Lane lately you know it's needed. To help update the work that is planned, we bring in City Engineer Kevin Krulik. Kevin breaks down the updates, and passes along the completion timeline. Kevin also gives the latest on Stone Eater Bike Park. It's nearly complete, and almost open for biking, walking, and running. More about Stone Eater Bike Park: https://lebanon.in.gov/community/stone-eater-bike-park/    

Episode 176 of the #LovinLebanon Podcast has a little bit of everything. C. Shane Conner from ATEC Electrical Contractors joins us. They do a lot of work with the NFL and in the auto racing world, too. In this episode we cover where Shane's business began, why he's expanding into the former Bottom's Up establishment, what it was like to buy Joe Montana breakfast.....and why a certain famous like from Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark clip gets mentioned.  More on ATEC: https://atec-electric.com/